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6 Back-to-School Pieces We Want as Adults

Who says kids should get to have all the fun? So we’re not really headed back to school this September, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t reflecting fondly on what we used to wear way back when. In fact, we’ll admit that right around this time every year, we queue up old episodes of prep-school classics likeGossip Girland The O.C. and take a walk down memory lane for a little style inspiration.

For 2017, we’re embracing those student-favored staples like preppy polos and handy backpacks, all with an updated, grown-up twist. You may have once owned these style staples, but this time around, there’s nothing childish about them. So breathe easy—there’s no picture day on the horizon, but you can still make the most of back-to-school style.

Read on for a walk down memory lane and to shop our favorite back-to-school picks to wear now!

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PHOTO:

Sandra Semburg

We’ll never forget the agony over deciding exactly what to wear on the very first day of school. To us, these dresses are perfect—polished and a little preppy.

No student’s wardrobe is complete without a backpack (usually stuffed full of heavy textbooks), but for us adults, sleek, understated takes on the style make the ideal choice for the office or running errands.

Okay, hear us out on this one. We’ve got major nostalgia for the stylish stocks we once complained to Mom about having to wear. Sheer or scrunchable socks will look super cool now paired with sneakers or a killer pair of heels.